Uroderma

Uroderma is a genus of bats belonging to the family Phyllostomidae, commonly known as the New World leaf-nosed bats. These bats are primarily found in Central and South America. The genus currently contains two recognized species: Uroderma bilabiatum, the southern big-eyed bat, and Uroderma maximiliani, the northern big-eyed bat.

Both species of Uroderma are characterized by their distinctive facial markings, which include pale stripes on their faces, and their large eyes, which are adaptations for their nocturnal lifestyle. They possess a leaf-like nose structure, a common trait among Phyllostomidae bats, which aids in echolocation. Uroderma bats are relatively small, with wingspans typically ranging from 25 to 35 centimeters.

Their diet consists mainly of fruits, making them important seed dispersers in their respective ecosystems. They forage at night, often roosting in small groups during the day in tree hollows, caves, or dense foliage. The reproductive behavior of Uroderma bats is not extensively documented, but like many bat species, they are thought to have low reproductive rates. Conservation efforts for Uroderma are often linked to the preservation of their forest habitats, as deforestation poses a significant threat to their populations.